Bearcats Destroy Pitt, Start Off Season With a Boom

George Winn goes 58 yards untouched on Cincy’s first play from scrimmage

The Bearcats started the 2012 season out with a boom, literally and figuratively.

Less than two minutes into last night’s contest against Pitt, the touchdown cannon exploded with sound as George Winn busted through the offensive line on his way to a 58-yard touchdown run on UC’s first play from scrimmage. Did I mention he was untouched?

Cincy’s defense was stellar as well from the get go, adding multiple sacks, a fumble recovery and an interception in the end zone. Walter Stewart led the charge last night for a defense that is trying to lead the NCAA in tackles for loss for the second straight season.

The final score, 34-10, makes it even seem closer than it really was last night. Winn had two rushing touchdowns, sophomore Ralph David Abernathy IV had two receiving touchdowns (untouched on both of them as well), and quarterback Munchie Legaux showed he can do it with his feet and with his arm– amounting 322 total yards (205 passing and 117 rushing).

Things to Note:

• RDA IV or just Ralph David Abernathy IV (ESPN got me excited to use that nickname) is truly electrifying. Small in his stature, but quick as lightning– Abernathy showed what kind of explosive play maker he will be this season. He will be doing it returning kicks, out of he backfield as a rusher, and as a wide receiver. Definitely someone to watch for this season.

• Munchie Legaux indeed does struggle throwing the ball. On occasion, Munchie made the throws he needed to, but more times than not he threw the ball into the ground. This type of passing game slows down an offense that requires a fast-pace and leaves yards behind. He is an explosive runner, but must concentrate on improving as a passer over the next couple weeks. He deserves praise for his performance though, which was only his fourth start ever.

• The running back and wide receiver situations are scary, and that’s a good thing. So many options and threats for the Bearcats this season. Winn and Abernathy is only the beginning as big play threats, Anthony McClung, Kenbrell Thompkins, Jameel Poteat and even tight end Travis Kelce had nice showings last night. Plenty of depth at both of these positions.

• The defense looked solid, given Pitt’s struggles, the revamped linebacking core and explosive defense ends played well. Stewart is a stud pass rusher and Dan Giordano is a nice complement on the other side. Head Coach Butch Jones rotated a lot of players in and out on defense, especially in the defensive backfield and that is something UC teams haven’t had the luxury to do in the past.

Other Links:

Here are some other links, which are covering last nights game and the Bearcats this season, enjoy!

Andrea Adelson’s BIG EAST Blog – ESPN

Bill Koch’s Cincinnati Bearcats Blog on Cincinnati.com

Panthers Might Just Be That Bad

Cincinnati’s 1530 – Mo Egger